What happens if I don’t complete the optional hunting challenges?

In Red Dead Redemption 2, the optional hunting challenges are part of the larger Hunting Requests side quest, which is not directly tied to the main story or the game''s endings. These challenges involve hunting specific animals and delivering their carcasses to a taxidermist named Mrs. Hobbs. While completing these challenges can be rewarding, failing to do so will not prevent you from unlocking any of the game''s endings.\n\nThere are four main endings in Red Dead Redemption 2, and they are determined by your honor level and the final choices you make during the story. The hunting challenges, while optional, do not influence these outcomes. However, completing them can provide unique rewards, such as the Legendary Buck Trinket, which improves the quality of animal pelts you collect. This can be particularly useful if you are aiming to craft specific items at the Trapper or upgrade your camp.\n\nTo start the Hunting Requests, you need to find a poster in a train station or post office. The first poster is located in Valentine, and interacting with it will initiate the quest. You will then need to hunt specific animals, such as a perfect rabbit or a perfect squirrel, and mail their carcasses to Mrs. Hobbs. Each request becomes progressively more challenging, requiring rarer animals and more precise hunting techniques.\n\nIf you choose not to complete these challenges, you will miss out on the unique rewards and the satisfaction of completing a difficult side quest. However, this will not affect your ability to experience the game''s main story or its endings. The endings are primarily influenced by your honor level, which is determined by your actions throughout the game. High honor leads to more positive outcomes, while low honor results in darker conclusions.\n\nFor players who are struggling with the hunting challenges, there are several tips to make the process easier. First, always use the appropriate weapon for the animal you are hunting. For example, small animals like squirrels and rabbits require a varmint rifle, while larger animals like deer need a rifle or bow with improved arrows. Second, aim for headshots to ensure a clean kill and preserve the quality of the pelt. Finally, use Eagle Eye to track animals and locate their vital organs for a precise shot.\n\nIn summary, while the optional hunting challenges in Red Dead Redemption 2 are not required to unlock any of the game''s endings, they offer unique rewards and a sense of accomplishment. If you choose to skip them, you will still be able to experience the full range of story outcomes based on your honor level and final choices. For those who decide to take on the challenges, careful preparation and precise hunting techniques will make the process more manageable and rewarding.